At Barnby Road Academy we run the Outdoor Play and Learning (OPAL) programme for our children at playtimes and lunchtimes to give our children the best play experiences.

The OPAL Primary Programme rationale is that “… better, more active and creative playtimes can mean happier and healthier children, and having happier, healthier, more active children usually results in a more positive attitude to learning in school, with more effective classroom lessons, less staff time spent resolving unnecessary behavioural problems, fewer playtime accidents, happier staff and a healthier attitude to life.”

Have a look at some of our children playing during OPAL lunchtime. It is our favourite time of the day!

Our OPAL Play Charter

Our Pupil Council discussed a play charter to keep everyone happy and safe during OPAL play.

So we can have the best Barnby playtimes we will:

• Respect all of our equipment
• Be kind, resilient and share
• Be respectful to our play team 
• Follow the risk management 
• Be safe and wear the correct clothing
• Be creative and use your imagination

Article 31 UNCRC (UN Convention on the Rights of the Child) - Every child has the right to play

Our OPAL Committee

OPAL Mentor: Wendy Syalon

Headteacher: Steven Chamberlain

Curriculum Leads: Dave Webster and Anna Woolridge

Play Co-ordinator: Izzy Geraghty

Senior Midday: Sheena Kelly

Governor Rep: Phil Shepherd

Parent Rep: Emma Robinson

Our OPAL Play Team